Fake Police Scams Are Targeting the Elderly—Here’s How to Stay Safe

In the Netherlands, a new type of scam is spreading fast. Criminals pretending to be police officers are tricking elderly people into handing over their valuables. Last year, there were over 8,300 cases—15 times more than the year before. This crime doesn’t just take money; it breaks trust. So, what’s going on, and how can we stop it?

How the Scammers Operate

It starts with a phone call. The scammer pretends to be a police officer and warns the person on the line—usually someone over 70—that burglars are targeting their area. They might say something like, “We found a list of names, and your address is on it.”

To gain trust, they use personal details bought online. Sometimes, they’ll even mention a family member’s name, claiming to have spoken to them. Then comes the real trick: they tell the victim to hand over their jewelry, cash, or other valuables to keep them safe.

When the scammer arrives, they look the part. They might wear a jacket that looks like a police uniform, complete with fake badges. In some cases, they even send young teenagers to pick up the goods, making it harder to trace back to the masterminds.

The Impact on Victims

These scams leave victims shaken and heartbroken. One 83-year-old woman handed over her valuables, only for the scammer to say, “You’re still wearing a nice necklace and your wedding ring. Give me those too.”

The damage isn’t just financial. Many victims feel embarrassed and lose trust in others, even in real police officers. That makes it harder for authorities to do their job.

What Are Authorities Doing?

The Dutch police are working hard to stop these scams. They’ve arrested hundreds of people, including those who run the call centers where scammers make their fake calls. But the problem is big, and catching the people in charge—the ones running the show—isn’t easy.

To help prevent these crimes, the police are focusing on education. They’re holding meetings, spreading the word on social media, and sharing tips like:

• Always check IDs: If someone claims to be a police officer, ask for their badge and call your local station to confirm.
• Never hand over valuables: Real police officers will never ask you to hand over money or jewelry.
• Stay cautious: If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and call the emergency number (112).

How Families Can Help

Family members can make a big difference. Talk to your elderly relatives about these scams and what to watch out for. Remind them to be skeptical of unexpected calls or visits, and reassure them that it’s okay to say no or double-check.

A Loss of Trust

One of the worst things about these scams is how they damage trust. Real police officers are being met with suspicion because of these criminals. But there’s hope. Thanks to more awareness and community efforts, people are reporting these scams more often, and the police are making progress.

Bottom Line: Be Cautious

Fake police scams show how far criminals will go to take advantage of others, especially the elderly. But by staying informed, being cautious, and supporting one another, we can make it much harder for these scams to succeed. If you or someone you know is targeted, don’t stay silent—report it. Every report helps protect others and brings us closer to stopping these scammers for good.